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How to Apply for Enterprise Ireland Grants and Supports: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Apply for Feasibility Study Grants from Enterprise Ireland?

 

Feasibility Study Grants are available to help businesses evaluate the viability of new projects. To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the Project: Define the scope and objectives of your feasibility study.
  2. Prepare a Proposal: Develop a detailed project plan, including objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  3. Submit an Application: Complete the feasibility study grant application form available on the Enterprise Ireland website.
  4. Review and Approval: Enterprise Ireland will review the application, and if approved, funds will be allocated to support the project.

Example: Sarah used a Feasibility Study Grant to conduct market research for her new line of organic skincare products, leading to a successful product launch.

 

How to Apply for Innovation Vouchers from Enterprise Ireland?

Innovation Vouchers provide funding to collaborate with knowledge providers on innovative projects. The process is as follows:

  1. Identify a Knowledge Provider: Partner with a university, college, or research organization.
  2. Define the Project: Develop a project plan that outlines the innovative work to be done.
  3. Apply for the Voucher: Submit an application for the innovation voucher through Enterprise Ireland’s portal.
  4. Implement the Project: Use the voucher to fund the collaboration and complete the project.

Example: Kevin’s software company partnered with a local university to develop a new AI algorithm using an innovation voucher. The collaboration resulted in a cutting-edge product that boosted sales.

 

How to Apply for Business Expansion Grants from Enterprise Ireland?

Business Expansion Grants support companies looking to scale their operations. The application process includes:

  1. Develop an Expansion Plan: Outline your expansion strategy, including market analysis and growth projections.
  2. Prepare Financial Projections: Provide detailed financial forecasts and budgets.
  3. Complete the Application: Fill out the business expansion grant application form, providing all required details.
  4. Submit and Await Decision: Submit the application to Enterprise Ireland for review and approval.

Example: Rachel’s food processing company used a business expansion grant to increase production capacity, leading to significant growth in domestic and international markets.

 

What is the Internationalisation Grant?

The Internationalisation Grant helps businesses develop their export capabilities and enter new international markets. The application process involves:

  1. Conduct Market Research: Identify target export markets and develop an internationalisation strategy.
  2. Prepare a Proposal: Outline your export plan, including market entry methods and marketing activities.
  3. Complete the Application: Submit the internationalisation grant application form with supporting documents.
  4. Review and Approval: Enterprise Ireland will review the application, and if approved, provide funding to support your export activities.

Example: Laura’s tech startup used an Internationalisation Grant to establish a presence in the European market, funding trade show participation and marketing campaigns.

 

How to Apply for the Agile Innovation Fund?

The Agile Innovation Fund supports rapid innovation projects. To apply:

  1. Identify an Innovation Project: Define the scope and objectives of your agile innovation project.
  2. Prepare a Detailed Plan: Develop a project plan with timelines, milestones, and expected outcomes.
  3. Complete the Application: Fill out the Agile Innovation Fund application form, providing all necessary details.
  4. Submit for Review: Submit your application to Enterprise Ireland for evaluation and approval.

Example: Mike’s tech company applied for the Agile Innovation Fund to quickly develop and test a new software feature, allowing them to stay ahead of competitors.

 

How to Get Microfinance Loans from Enterprise Ireland?

Microfinance loans provide small businesses with access to finance. The application process includes:

  1. Assess Your Funding Needs: Determine the amount of funding required and the purpose of the loan.
  2. Prepare Financial Documents: Gather necessary documents, including financial statements and business plans.
  3. Complete the Loan Application: Fill out the microfinance loan application form, providing detailed information about your business and funding needs.
  4. Submit and Await Decision: Submit the application to Enterprise Ireland for review and approval.

Example: Emma’s retail business secured a microfinance loan to purchase inventory for her new store, enabling her to meet customer demand and grow her business.